Morphological and functional response to injury to the external urethral sphincter - similarities and differences between male and female rats.

AIMS: The objective of this study was to evaluate the similarities and differences of the urethral morphological and functional changes following external urethral sphincter EUS injury in male and female rats. METHODS: 30 female and 30 male age-matched Wistar rats were used in the experiments. Half of them underwent electrocauterization of the surrounding tissues lateral to the urethra at the level of the (EUS) and the others, a sham operation. At 2, 6, and 16 weeks after surgeries they underwent anesthetized cystometry, measurement of leak point pressure (LPP) and their urethras were harvested for morphological analyses. RESULTS: There were no differences in cystometric parameters between sex-time-matched animals, ensuring normal bladder function in the manipulated animals. The mean LPP in male and female rats was lower compared with sham animals. Age-time-matched sham operated male rats exhibited a higher LPP compared with female rats. The reduction in LPP comparing electrocauterized and sham time-matched animals was more pronounced in male rats than in female rats. Electrocauterization produced urethral collagen deposition and nerve damage in both male and female animals. Muscle atrophy and disruption also occurred, being more evident in female rats. CONCLUSIONS: The urethras of male and female rats exhibited a similar morphological and functional response to electrocauterization. The time-course evaluation revealed that the male animal model is as reliable, reproducible and long-lasting as the female model. Intact males had a higher LPP than female rats and the nerve injury led to a more drastic impairment of this mechanism.

Urinary incontinence following surgery for BPH: the role of aging on the incidence of bladder dysfunction.

PURPOSE: The reported incidence of urinary incontinence (UI) due to bladder dysfunction following surgery of BPH is variable. We described the causes of incontinence in a large group of men that developed this unusual complication and analyzed the influence of age on the prevalence of bladder dysfunction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We evaluated a total of 125 patients with urinary incontinence following surgical treatment for BPH: Transurethral resection of the prostate (81 men) and open prostatectomy (44 men). A third group of 21 patients with incontinence following radical prostatectomy was used for comparison. All patients underwent urodynamic analysis. Urethral Sphincter Insufficiency (USI) was defined as involuntary loss of urine induced by Valsalva maneuver in the absence of a detrusor contraction. Bladder dysfunction was defined as detrusor overactivity and/or decreased compliance. RESULTS: Urethral sphincter insufficiency was the most common etiology of urinary incontinence in the three groups of patients. However, bladder dysfunction was observed in 59.3%, 56.8% and 57.1% of patients who underwent transurethral resection, open prostatectomy and radical prostatectomy, respectively. Median patient age was 69 and 75 years for patients with and without bladder dysfunction, respectively. A logistic regression model for the presence of bladder dysfunction showed that age was a statistically significant predictor. CONCLUSIONS: Urethral Sphincter insufficiency is the main cause of incontinence following surgery for BPH. Bladder dysfunction may be the isolated cause of incontinence in approximately 25% of patients. The chances of bladder dysfunction rises 5.3% for each year added to patient age. Patients older than 70 years have twice the probability of post procedural incontinence.

Adjustable sling for the treatment of post-prostatectomy urinary incontinence: systematic review and meta-analysis.

Urinary incontinence after prostatectomy has a significant negative impact on the quality of life of the patient. The surgical treatment includes several models of male slings, such as adjustable slings. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of adjustable sling in the treatment of post-prostatectomy urinary incontinence. This is a systematic review of literature. The following electronic databases were searched until January 2018: PubMed®, Embase, CENTRAL and LILACS. The keywords used in the search strategies were: "prostatectomy" [Mesh], "urinary incontinence" [Mesh] and "suburethral slings" [Mesh]. Randomized clinical trials and observational studies, with or without Control Group, and follow-up of more than 12 months were included. Only one randomized study with high risk of bias was included and it concluded the effectiveness equivalence between adjustable and non-adjustable slings. All other studies were cases series with patients of varying levels of incontinence intensity and history of pelvic radiation therapy and previous surgeries. The meta-analysis for 0 pad in 24 hours demonstrated an effectiveness of 53%. For the 0 to 1 pad test in 24 hours, the meta-analysis resulted in an effectiveness of 69%. Risk factors for surgery failure include prior radiation, severity of post-prostatectomy urinary incontinence, and previous surgeries. The meta-analysis of the extrusion rate was 9.8% and the most commonly reported adverse effects were pain and local infection. Evidence of low quality indicates that adjustable slings are effective for treating post-prostatectomy urinary incontinence, with frequency of adverse events similar to the surgical option considered gold standard (the artificial urinary sphincter implant).

Adjustable sling for the treatment of post-prostatectomy urinary incontinence: systematic review and meta-analysis / Implante de sling ajustável no tratamento da incontinência urinária pós-prostatectomia: revisão sistemática e meta-análise

ABSTRACT Urinary incontinence after prostatectomy has a significant negative impact on the quality of life of the patient. The surgical treatment includes several models of male slings, such as adjustable slings. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of adjustable sling in the treatment of post-prostatectomy urinary incontinence. This is a systematic review of literature. The following electronic databases were searched until January 2018: PubMed®, Embase, CENTRAL and LILACS. The keywords used in the search strategies were: "prostatectomy" [Mesh], "urinary incontinence" [Mesh] and "suburethral slings" [Mesh]. Randomized clinical trials and observational studies, with or without Control Group, and follow-up of more than 12 months were included. Only one randomized study with high risk of bias was included and it concluded the effectiveness equivalence between adjustable and non-adjustable slings. All other studies were cases series with patients of varying levels of incontinence intensity and history of pelvic radiation therapy and previous surgeries. The meta-analysis for 0 pad in 24 hours demonstrated an effectiveness of 53%. For the 0 to 1 pad test in 24 hours, the meta-analysis resulted in an effectiveness of 69%. Risk factors for surgery failure include prior radiation, severity of post-prostatectomy urinary incontinence, and previous surgeries. The meta-analysis of the extrusion rate was 9.8% and the most commonly reported adverse effects were pain and local infection. Evidence of low quality indicates that adjustable slings are effective for treating post-prostatectomy urinary incontinence, with frequency of adverse events similar to the surgical option considered gold standard (the artificial urinary sphincter implant).

RESUMO A incontinência urinária pós-prostatectomia tem importante impacto negativo na qualidade de vida do portador. O tratamento cirúrgico inclui slings masculinos e, entre os diversos modelos, os slings ajustáveis. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a efetividade e a segurança do sling ajustável no tratamento da incontinência urinária pós-prostatectomia. Trata-se de revisão sistemática de literatura. Foram pesquisadas as seguintes bases de dados eletrônicas até janeiro de 2018: PubMed®, Embase, CENTRAL e LILACS. As palavras-chaves utilizadas nas estratégias de busca foram: "prostatectomy" [Mesh], "urinary incontinence" [Mesh] e "suburethral slings" [Mesh]. Foram incluídos ensaios clínicos randomizados e estudos observacionais controlados ou não com seguimento maior que 12 meses. Apenas um estudo randomizado com alto risco de viés foi localizado e concluiu a equivalência de efetividade de slings ajustáveis e não ajustáveis. Todos os outros estudos foram série de casos com pacientes de variados níveis de intensidade da incontinência e histórico de radioterapia pélvica e cirurgias prévias. A metanálise para 0 pad em 24 horas demonstrou efetividade de 53%. Para o desfecho 0 a 1 pad em 24 horas, a metanálise resultou em efetividade de 69%. Os fatores de risco para insucesso da cirurgia incluem radiação prévia, gravidade da incontinência urinária pós-prostatectomia e cirurgias anteriores. A metanálise da taxa de extrusão foi de 9,8%, e os efeitos adversos mais relatados foram dor e infecção local. Evidências de baixa qualidade indicam que os slings ajustáveis são efetivos para o tratamento da incontinência urinária pós-prostatectomia, com frequência de eventos adversos semelhantes à opção cirúrgica considerada padrão-ouro (o implante de esfíncter urinário artificial).

Urinary incontinence following surgery for BPH: the role of aging on the incidence of bladder dysfunction

PURPOSE: The reported incidence of urinary incontinence (UI) due to bladder dysfunction following surgery of BPH is variable. We described the causes of incontinence in a large group of men that developed this unsual complication and analyzed the influence of age on the prevalence of bladder dysfunction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We wvaluated a total of 125 patients with urinary incontinence following surgical treatment for BPH : Transurethral resection of the prostate (81men) and open prostatectomy (44 men). A third group of 21 patients with incontinence following radical prostatectomy was used for comparison. All patients underwent urodynamic analysis. Urethral Sphincter Insufficiency (USI)was defined as involuntary loss of urine induced by Valsalva maneuver in the absence of a detrusor contraction. Bladder dysfunction was defined as detrusor overactivity and/or decreased compliance. RESULTS: Urethral sphincter insufficiency was the most common etiology of urinary incontinence in the three groups of patients. However, bladder dysfunction was observed in 59.3 percent, 56.8 percent and 57.1 percent of patients who underwent transurethral resection, open prostatectomy and radical prostatectomy, respectively. Median patient age was 69 and 75 years for patients with and without bladder dysfunction, respectively. A logistic regression model for the presence of bladder dysfunction showed that age was a statistically significant predictor. CONCLUSIONS: Urethral Sphincter insufficiency is the main cause of incontinence following surgery for BPH. Bladder dysfunction may be the isolated cause of incontinence in approximately 25 percent of patients. The chances of bladder dysfunction rises 5.3 percent for each year added to patient age. Patients older than 70 years have twice the probablility of post procedural incontinence.

Paraurethral leiomyoma in a female causing urinary obstruction.

We report a case of paraurethral leiomyoma in a female patient, in which the first symptoms were dysuria and sensation of incomplete voiding. The physical examination revealed a mass in the anterior vaginal wall. The diagnosis was made through ultrasonography and pelvic MRI and confirmed by transvaginal ultrasound-guided needle biopsy. The surgical excision was accomplished without opening the urinary tract. A review of the relevant published studies and a suggestion for the appropriate management of these cases are included.

Magnetic resonance imaging urodynamics. Technique development and preliminary results.

OBJECTIVES: In this preliminary study we report the development of the video urodynamic technique using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MATERIALS AND METHODS: We studied 6 women with genuine stress urinary incontinence, diagnosed by history and physical examination. Urodynamic examination was performed on multichannel equipment with the patient in the supine position. Coughing and Valsalva maneuvers were performed at volumes of 150, 250 and 350 mL. Simultaneously, MRI was carried out by using 1.5 T GE Signa CV/i high-speed scanner with real time fluoroscopic imaging possibilities. Fluoroscopic imaging was accomplished in the corresponding planes with T2-weighted single shot fast spin echo sequences at a speed of about 1 frame per second. Both studies were recorded and synchronized, resulting in a single video urodynamic examination. RESULTS: Dynamic MRI with cine-loop reconstruction of 1 image per second demonstrated the movement of all compartment of the relaxed pelvis during straining with the concomitant registration of abdominal and intravesical pressures. In 5 patients, urinary leakage was demonstrated during straining and the Valsalva leak point pressure (VLPP) was determined as the vesical pressure at leak subtracted from baseline bladder pressure. Mean VLPP was 72.6 cm H2O (ranging from 43 to 122 cm H2O). CONCLUSIONS: The concept of MRI video urodynamics is feasible. In a clinical perspective, practical aspects represent a barrier to daily use and it should be recommended for research purposes.

Male infertility in spinal cord trauma.

Every year there are 10 thousand new cases of patients victimized by spinal cord trauma (SCT) in the United States and it is estimated that there are 7 thousand new cases in Brazil. Eighty percent of patients are fertile males. Infertility in this patient group is due to 3 main factors resulting from spinal cord lesions: erectile dysfunction, ejaculatory disorder and low sperm counts. Erectile dysfunction has been successfully treated with oral and injectable medications, use of vacuum devices and penile prosthesis implants. The technological improvement in penile vibratory stimulation devices (PVS) and rectal probe electro-ejaculation (RPE) has made such procedures safer and accessible to patients with ejaculatory dysfunction. Despite the normal number of spermatozoa found in semen of spinal cord-injured patients, their motility is abnormal. This change does not seem to be related to changes in scrotal thermal regulation, frequency of ejaculation or duration of spinal cord damage but to factors related to the seminal plasma. Despite the poor seminal quality, increasingly more men with SCT have become fathers through techniques ranging from simple homologous insemination to sophisticated assisted reproduction techniques such as intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).

Combined vaginoscopy-cystoscopy: a novel simultaneous approach improving vesicovaginal fistula evaluation.

PURPOSE: Using a device that permits simultaneous viewing on the same display (picture in picture) of 2 images we performed combined vaginoscopy-cystoscopy (CVC) during evaluation for vesicovaginal fistula as a means of better visualization, allowing more precise identification and better preoperative planning. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A regular cystoscope and a 10 mm 0-degree laparoscope were used. Each was attached to a different microcamera and light source. The cameras were hooked to the back of a Twinvideo (Karl Storz Endoscopy, Tuttlingen, Germany), allowing a wide variety of views combining the 2 images. Cystoscopy was performed as usual and the laparoscope was used for vaginoscopy with a transparent vaginal speculum to maintain the vagina open, while allowing visualization of the vaginal wall. The 2 images were combined in picture in picture, providing confidence during the fistula identification process. Urinary leakage was viewed simultaneously with guide wire passage through the cystoscope and vaginal wall, showing the exactly fistula position. RESULTS: The CVC procedure using 2 images in picture in picture allows precise identification during evaluation for vesicovaginal fistula. CONCLUSIONS: CVC has become a routine procedure in suspicious cases or in those of a confirmed diagnosis of vesicovaginal fistula at our institution. It increases the likelihood of fistula diagnosis and identification, allowing better surgical planning.

A simple way to take pictures during endoscopic procedures.

PURPOSE: We describe a new method of taking pictures from endoscopic images using a digital photo camera coupled to the endoscopic lens without an adapter. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We used a digital camera with 3.3 megapixel resolution and 6 x optical zoom. The camera was coupled to the endoscopic lens with no special adapter. The image was accompanied through the LCD (liquid crystal display) visor, and the picture was taken with the flash button on and with no macro resource. The image was then enlarged by optical and digital zoom before being easily stored in photo files at the personal computer. RESULTS: The quality of the photos obtained by this method was at least similar to that of traditional photos, and the data were promptly stored. CONCLUSIONS: We describe a simple method of taking pictures from endoscopic images with the additional advantage of a facility to edit and store the photographs.

Magnetic resonance imaging urodynamics: technique development and preliminary results

OBJECTIVES: In this preliminary study we report the development of the video urodynamic technique using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MATERIALS AND METHODS: We studied 6 women with genuine stress urinary incontinence, diagnosed by history and physical examination. Urodynamic examination was performed on multichannel equipment with the patient in the supine position. Coughing and Valsalva maneuvers were performed at volumes of 150, 250 and 350 mL. Simultaneously, MRI was carried out by using 1.5 T GE Signa CV/i high-speed scanner with real time fluoroscopic imaging possibilities. Fluoroscopic imaging was accomplished in the corresponding planes with T2-weighted single shot fast spin echo sequences at a speed of about 1 frame per second. Both studies were recorded and synchronized, resulting in a single video urodynamic examination. RESULTS: Dynamic MRI with cine-loop reconstruction of 1 image per second demonstrated the movement of all compartment of the relaxed pelvis during straining with the concomitant registration of abdominal and intravesical pressures. In 5 patients, urinary leakage was demonstrated during straining and the Valsalva leak point pressure (VLPP) was determined as the vesical pressure at leak subtracted from baseline bladder pressure. Mean VLPP was 72.6 cm H2O (ranging from 43 to 122 cm H2O). CONCLUSIONS: The concept of MRI video urodynamics is feasible. In a clinical perspective, practical aspects represent a barrier to daily use and it should be recommended for research purposes.

Male infertility in spinal cord trauma

Every year there are 10 thousand new cases of patients victimized by spinal cord trauma (SCT) in the United States and it is estimated that there are 7 thousand new cases in Brazil. Eighty percent of patients are fertile males. Infertility in this patient group is due to 3 main factors resulting from spinal cord lesions: erectile dysfunction, ejaculatory disorder and low sperm counts. Erectile dysfunction has been successfully treated with oral and injectable medications, use of vacuum devices and penile prosthesis implants. The technological improvement in penile vibratory stimulation devices (PVS) and rectal probe electro-ejaculation (RPE) has made such procedures safer and accessible to patients with ejaculatory dysfunction. Despite the normal number of spermatozoa found in semen of spinal cord-injured patients, their motility is abnormal. This change does not seem to be related to changes in scrotal thermal regulation, frequency of ejaculation or duration of spinal cord damage but to factors related to the seminal plasma. Despite the poor seminal quality, increasingly more men with SCT have become fathers through techniques ranging from simple homologous insemination to sophisticated assisted reproduction techniques such as intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).

Propedêutica na síndrome da perda urinária com riso ("Giggle incontinence") / Propaedeutics in giggle incontinence

A perda urinária representada por micçäo involuntária e incontrolável, induzida por riso tolo e frívilo, é denominada em língua inglesa como "giggle incontinence". Por incidir próximo e durante a puberdade, atinge o indivíduo numa época psicologicamente vulnerável, com traumas às vezes irreparáveis, em funçäo das perdas urinárias. Impöe-se portanto acompanhamento médico especializado, para diagnóstico e orientaçäo terapêutica. Foram estudados 6 pacientes, 5 do sexo feminino e um do masculino, com idade média de 14,3 anos, com queixa de perdas urinárias em determinadas situaçöes de riso, apresentando o sintoma há 2 anos em média. A avaliaçäo compreendeu exame urinário completo, ultra-som do trato urinário, cistografia e exame urodinâmico incluindo cistometria, estudo miccional e perfil pressórico uretral, através de caráter de membrana. O resultado comum a todos os pacientes foi a relaçäo da perda urinária com riso por motivo futil e tolo, sempre em grupo de pessoas da mesma idade e em situaçöes como reuniöes ou pequenas festas. Os exames de urina e por imagem mostratam-se anormalidades, sendo útil somente em afastar outros problemas. Os exames urodinâmicos foram normais em 4 pacientes. Em outros 2, encontrou-se instabilidade detrusora sem perdas, uma delas seguindo a momento de riso tolo e nervoso, desencadeado por conversas no decorrer do exame. A presença de instabilidade detrusora nestes 2 pacientes e a possibilidade aventada, mas näo comprovada em literatura, de que este estado emocional desencadearia dificuldade de inibiçäo adequada, foi a base para a instituiçäo de tratamento farmacológico com anticolinérgicos, bem como orientaçäo para avaliaçäo e suporte psicológico, com boa evoluçäo a médio prazo